($22, Dalla Terra Direct): Tascante is the name of the Mount Etna project of Tasca d’Almerita, one of the locomotives that have brought Sicilian wines to the world’s attention.  (The name is an amalgamation of Tasca appended to Etna, spelled backwards.)  The name of the wine, Ghiaia Nera (black gravel) alludes to the incredible black volcanic soil of Etna.  The wine, from Etna’s indigenous red grape, Nerello Mascalese, reflects its origins.  You can almost taste the lava.  Underlying the minerality is a firm floral fresh cherry profile.  But the most amazing aspect is its Burgundian-like, flavor-without-weight character.  Don’t miss this bargain priced treasure that’s ready for current consumption.
93 Michael Apstein Feb 10, 2015